It was just the second homer to a left-handed batter allowed by Rodriguez in 112 2/3 career innings. He entered the day with a 2.45 ERA and 21 strikeouts in 14 2/3 innings this season.

Votto, on the other hand, was suffering from a serious power outage this season. The 2010 NL MVP had homered just twice in 108 at-bats, though he did have 15 doubles. It was certainly only a matter of time before he started clearing some fences, but three in one day was rather unexpected. It was his second career three-homer game, as well as his second career grand slam and third career walkoff homer.

The comeback today prevented the Reds from being swept at home. They’re one game over .500 at 17-16 for the season.

3.5 hour rain delay for this one, so not a lot of people saw the final blast. The Reds need Votto and others to heat up like this; they’ve had generally good pitching, but are leaving a lot of guys on base. Hope this is the start of a trend.

Randygnyc. Your right they are in different leagues Hamilton plays in the American league, and Votto plays in the national league. The Reds traded Hamilton ( dumb move ) because Wayne Krivsky ( jackass ) thought Hamilton would break down after a few seasons. My point is if Hamilton has 500 at bats his numbers will be crazy but he always seems to be on the DL which bring his numbers slightly down. I’d still love to have him in Cincinnati though to go with Votto and Bruce.

if he were still in cincy he would not be putting up those numbers,dusty would not be playing him everyday. that is the answer to the question question of how you get hamilton out, have dusty baker be his manager! I guarantee you there is a page in his book about how playing him everyday would be bad for him and the team,matchups and all that you know.besides you have to find room in the lineup for guys like willie harris,corey patterson,taveras,ludwick,renteria. guys with speed and veterans who are going to heat up any day now with more playing time.